Tag Archives: reader interest

Quite a Character

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Does the start of your novel offer close-ups?

When I saw at the library the latest novel in an alternative-history series, I snapped it up.

Why wouldn’t I? The previous dozen volumes had not only explored an intriguing premise, but they’d show it to me through the perspectives of an well-developed cast.

Not the latest novel. The prologue, after briefly introducing one character, immediately brought another on … Continue reading →

Earning Your Readers

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Have you worked to ensure their interest?

I looked forward to that novel. But as hard as I tried, I couldn’t finish it.

In theory, I should have enjoyed the story. I’d read all the previous books in the series and was attracted to this one’s topic.

But the author’s technique kept me at arm’s length from the events and characters. Worse, the story felt disjointed, as … Continue reading →